2008 BMW X3 vs. 2006 BMW X5
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 X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X5 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 47 more horse power than 2006 BMW X5. (181 HP @ 2000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 474 kg more than 2006 BMW X5. 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, 2006 BMW X5 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2006 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 93 L |
