1998 BMW 740 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 BMW 740. (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2011 BMW X3.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 BMW X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 740. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 740 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 740 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1968 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 67 L |
