2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 X3 (330 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
