1999 BMW 740 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 740 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 117 more horse power than 1999 BMW 740. (283 HP @ 7750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1999 BMW 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 740. (419 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 740. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 740 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 740 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 740 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 419 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2969 mm |
