2008 BMW X3 vs. 2003 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Pontiac Montana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Pontiac Montana would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Montana. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Montana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Montana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Pontiac Montana, 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 Pontiac Montana (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2003 Pontiac Montana 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. 2003 Pontiac Montana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2003 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | X3 | Montana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |
