2008 BMW X3 vs. 1999 BMW 740
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 9 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 3,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 BMW 740. (242 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 740 weights approximately 520 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1999 BMW 740 (560 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 1999 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1999 BMW 740 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 2035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2940 mm |
