2006 BMW 550 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317.
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 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
