2006 BMW X3 vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 8 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 42 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1998 BMW 730.
Because 2006 BMW X3 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, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 730. 1998 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 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:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
