2005 BMW X3 vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (325 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2005 BMW X3. (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW M (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW X3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
