1999 BMW 330 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 3400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 330. (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 330.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
