1998 BMW 316 vs. 2007 BMW 550
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1998 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, 2007 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2007 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
