1991 BMW M12 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 M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Because 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12. 2012 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M12 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |
