2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2012 Toyota RAV4 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 216 kg more than 2012 Toyota RAV4.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota RAV4. (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota RAV4. 2012 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | X3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
