2009 BMW X3 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X5 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (351 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2009 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 364 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.
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 X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 351 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
