2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea is newer by 6 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 730 weights approximately 595 kg more than 2004 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Idea, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Idea. 1998 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2004 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2004 Fiat Idea 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:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Fiat | BMW |
| Model | Idea | 730 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
