1978 BMW 725 vs. 2003 BMW 330
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2003 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
