2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Land Rover Discovery

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Land Rover Discovery. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Land Rover Discovery would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Land Rover Discovery is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 Land Rover Discovery. (181 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Land Rover Discovery. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Land Rover Discovery weights approximately 325 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.

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, 1998 Land Rover Discovery (320 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Land Rover Discovery will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Land Rover Discovery has manual transmission. 1998 Land Rover Discovery 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 Land Rover Discovery
Make BMW Land Rover
Model X3 Discovery
Year Released 2008 1998
Body Type SUV SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 3946 cc
Horse Power 228 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 2090 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1920 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2550 mm