1994 BMW M5 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1994 BMW M5. (335 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M5 weights approximately 126 kg more than 2008 BMW 550.
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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW M5. (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW M5. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M5 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3793 cc | 4799 cc |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1786 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
