1996 BMW 730 vs. 2004 BMW X3
To start off, 2004 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,925 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW X3 (225 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW X3 weights approximately 79 kg more than 1996 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 BMW X3 (290 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 730. (280 Nm). This means 2004 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 730 | 2004 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2925 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
