1998 Buick Signia 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 Buick Signia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Signia 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 162 more horse power than 1998 Buick Signia. (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Signia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1998 Buick Signia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick Signia. (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick Signia. 1998 Buick Signia 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 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Signia | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Buick | BMW |
Model | Signia | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 387 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4905 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2969 mm |