2003 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 740
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 740 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 BMW 740 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
