2008 BMW X3 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 196 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1926 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
