1986 BMW 730 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 730 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1986 BMW 730.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 730. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 730 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
