2008 BMW 650 vs. 1988 Lada Samara

To start off, 2008 BMW 650 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 650 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 650 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 650 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 BMW 650. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 650 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara. 2008 BMW 650 has automatic transmission and 1988 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1988 Lada Samara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 650 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 650 1988 Lada Samara
Make BMW Lada
Model 650 Samara
Year Released 2008 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1499 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 360 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5550 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 117 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92.1 mm 76 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 80 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1640 kg 920 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1380 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2470 mm