2008 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 686 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | X3 | EL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2619 mm |
