2008 BMW 550 vs. 1978 BMW 628
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 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1978 BMW 628. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 628.
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 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 628. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 628.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1978 BMW 628 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | 628 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
