2008 BMW 323 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2008 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW X3 (560 Nm) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2993 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
