2004 BMW X3 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW X3 would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2004 BMW X3. (225 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW X3. (290 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW X3 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2925 cc | 4799 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
