1985 BMW 316 vs. 2006 BMW 550
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP) has 274 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316.
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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 2006 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 4801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 360 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
