1996 BMW 725 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 725 (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 309 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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 280 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. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2730 mm |
