2008 BMW 550 vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (328 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
