2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan X-Trail. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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 51 more horse power than 2003 Nissan X-Trail. (177 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan X-Trail. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 814 kg more than 2003 Nissan X-Trail. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan X-Trail. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan X-Trail. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan X-Trail has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan X-Trail 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 | 2003 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | X3 | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1290 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
