2001 BMW M vs. 1996 BMW 730
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1996 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 730 weights approximately 371 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
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 M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 730. 1996 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1996 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M | 730 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 90 L |
