2006 BMW M3 vs. 1999 BMW 740
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (355 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1999 BMW 740. (283 HP @ 7750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 740 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2006 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, 1999 BMW 740 (419 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW M3. (370 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1999 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 419 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2940 mm |
