2006 BMW 530 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 530 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:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
