2008 Acura RL vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 382 kg more than 2008 Acura RL.
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, 2008 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RL | 2009 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | RL | X3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 67 L |
