1985 BMW 316 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 27 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP) has 314 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1985 BMW 316. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
