1996 BMW 730 vs. 2008 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 12 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1996 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 9 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 2008 BMW M5 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, 2008 BMW M5 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 M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 730 | 2008 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 730 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1746 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
