2007 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 BMW X3 1996 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model X3 Polo
Year Released 2007 1996
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1043 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 480 Nm 86 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 955 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 3720 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2410 mm