1978 BMW 730 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 31 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 5,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 631 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 1978 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2009 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 730 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 5670 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 438 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2810 mm |
