2003 BMW X5 vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1998 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1998 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 90 L |
