1978 BMW 730 vs. 2005 BMW X5
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X5 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1978 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2005 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2730 mm |
