2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 BMW 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2009 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 323.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 323. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
