2005 BMW X3 vs. 2003 BMW 318
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 318. 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, 2005 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 2003 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
