1958 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey 100. (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey 100 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2639 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
