2003 BMW M3 vs. 1997 BMW 730
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 303 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 730. (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1997 BMW 730 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 730 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 279 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 90 L |