2008 BMW X3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2005 BMW M3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW M3. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
