2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 BMW 730
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 730 (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 730 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW 730 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 BMW 730 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 63 L |
