1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 BMW 550

To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 323 2009 BMW 550
Make BMW BMW
Model 323 550
Year Released 1998 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 4799 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 170 HP 362 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 246 Nm 490 Nm
Engine Bore Size 84.1 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 74.9 mm 88.3 mm
Top Speed 231 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1547 kg 1662 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1470 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1850 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2890 mm