2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 709 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 330. 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 330. (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 330. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 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 | 1998 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
