1996 BMW 725 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 12 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 BMW X5.
Because 2008 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 725. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 725. 2008 BMW X5 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. 2008 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2940 mm |
