2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 BMW X5 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2012 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
