1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 632 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 609 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4999 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3071 mm |