1991 BMW 518 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. 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 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW 518 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 518 | 550 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2968 mm |