2006 BMW 550 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
