1990 BMW 316 vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 2010 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2010 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3066 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
