2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 271 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1926 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
