2007 BMW M3 vs. 1998 BMW 740
To start off, 2007 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 BMW 740. (286 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 313 kg more than 2007 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, 1998 BMW 740 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 1998 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1968 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 95 L |
