1988 BMW 730 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1988 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1988 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 730. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 730 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2984 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
