2007 BMW X3 vs. 1996 BMW 725
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2007 BMW X3.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 725. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 725. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1996 BMW 725 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2940 mm |
