2007 BMW 550 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 550 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 BMW 550 (491 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 550 | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 550 | Alero |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
