2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 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 50 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R.
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 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
