1987 BMW 730 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1987 BMW 730. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 123 kg more than 1987 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 260 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 730 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
