2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 BMW Z8
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW Z8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW Z8 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 341 kg more than 2003 BMW Z8.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW Z8. 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, 2003 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2003 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1926 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 73 L |
