2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 80 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
