2008 BMW X3 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 BMW 530.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 530. (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 530. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 530 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 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
