2001 BMW 740 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 BMW 740. (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 740 weights approximately 127 kg more than 2008 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, 2001 BMW 740 (410 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 2001 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 740 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 740 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2740 mm |
