1997 BMW 730 vs. 2008 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max.
Because 1997 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 730. (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 730 | 2008 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 730 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
