2008 BMW 550 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW 550.
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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 550 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1951 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |