2009 BMW X3 vs. 2006 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2009 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2006 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3245 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
