2007 BMW 550 vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2007 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 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. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 550 | 1998 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1893 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
