2004 BMW M3 vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2004 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 550 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2004 BMW M3. 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, 2010 BMW 550 (609 Nm) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2010 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 3066 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.9 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
