1980 BMW 725 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 725.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW 725 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 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 | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
