2008 BMW X3 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW Z3. 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3. 2001 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 51 L |
