2003 BMW X3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 10 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), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (227 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2013 BMW 3 Series.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7 :1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
