2003 BMW 330 vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 BMW 730.
Because 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 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, 2003 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 730. 1998 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 330 | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
