1996 BMW M3 vs. 1997 BMW 730
To start off, 1997 BMW 730 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 157 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 730. (279 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 730. 1997 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 1997 BMW 730 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 730 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 279 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |