2008 BMW X3 vs. 2006 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2006 Toyota Matrix. 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, 2006 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2008 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Matrix. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2006 Toyota Matrix 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 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | X3 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.2 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 50 L |
