2008 BMW X3 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 5 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 105 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.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.2 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1375 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
