2008 BMW 550 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 550 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 BMW 550. (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster 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 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
