1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 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 266 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 494 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4905 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2969 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |