1991 BMW 316 vs. 2006 BMW 550
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1991 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 550 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1991 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 316. (151 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 316 | 2006 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
