1998 BMW 729 vs. 2006 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 729. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 729 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 729. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 729. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 BMW 729. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 729. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 410 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 729 | 2006 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 729 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2800 mm |
