2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Acura RL
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RL (225 HP) has 36 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2003 Acura RL.
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, 2003 Acura RL, 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, 2003 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm). This means 2003 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2003 Acura RL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | X3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 50 L |
