2006 BMW X3 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2006 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X5. 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, 2008 BMW X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 2191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 15.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
