2006 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus would be higher. At 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 300 kg more than 2006 BMW X3.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
