2003 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 593 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen T5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
