2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 3 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 19 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.9 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
