1988 BMW 525 vs. 2006 BMW 550
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 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 @ 6300 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525.
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 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2006 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
