BMW 730 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 322 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
322
Avg Mileage
132,666 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2004 BMW 730 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 20 years old, 83% of BMW 730s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 322 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 132,666 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW 730 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW 730 has 132,666 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 730?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2004 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2004 BMW 730 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW 730 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 98% | 243 | 41,849 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 1,033 | 41,493 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 1,966 | 55,627 mi |
| 2018 | 95% | 1,592 | 67,232 mi |
| 2017 | 94% | 1,696 | 76,335 mi |
| 2016 | 91% | 2,288 | 88,853 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 1,345 | 91,832 mi |
| 2014 | 89% | 1,656 | 97,859 mi |
| 2013 | 89% | 875 | 110,696 mi |
| 2012 | 88% | 1,119 | 115,118 mi |
| 2011 | 86% | 1,467 | 119,035 mi |
| 2010 | 89% | 991 | 128,302 mi |
| 2009 | 88% | 806 | 130,274 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 1,043 | 138,734 mi |
| 2007 | 85% | 927 | 142,639 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 1,315 | 141,407 mi |
| 2005 | 83% | 694 | 150,286 mi |
| 2004 | 83% | 322 | 132,666 mi |
| 2003 | 88% | 277 | 139,746 mi |
| 1995 | 70% | 96 | 129,643 mi |
| 1994 | 86% | 70 | 106,349 mi |
| 1993 | 68% | 37 | 128,018 mi |
| 1992 | 81% | 31 | 126,198 mi |
| 1991 | 76% | 34 | 141,732 mi |
| 1990 | 82% | 57 | 129,365 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 730?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW 730
The 2004 BMW 730 is a premium performance with a 2993cc diesel engine. 322 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 19% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 132,666 miles at 20 years old, BMW 730 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 BMW 730 Fuel Costs
The 2993cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2004 BMW 730?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 730 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 730s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW 730
At 20 years old, the BMW 730 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW 730
The BMW 730 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premium performances from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 24,924 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 17,245 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2006) 81% pass rate (-2%) from 14,133 tests
- AUDI A4 (2004) 74% pass rate (-9%) from 12,946 tests