answer for once-balance of a 550
11-28-2007, 09:10 AM
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I have posted this question in about 3 threads but never got an answer and I hate starting new ones but I really want the answer. The question is how do they maintain a 50 50 weight balance in a 550 or any big v8 bmw. What balances the heavier engine out that the I6s do not have.
11-28-2007, 10:28 AM
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My Ride: 2008 Porsche 911 Carrera S Convertible. Midnight Blue, 6 Speed.Retired - 2007 997 Carrera S, Midnight Blue, Grey leather, premium audioRetired - 2007 550i, Monaco Blue over Beige, Navigation, Logic 7, Cold Weather Pack, Comfort Access, Sport Package
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Originally Posted by Rudy' post='500139' date='Nov 28 2007, 10:52 AM
I don't think they do manage a true 50/50 with the 550...
11-28-2007, 11:18 AM
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My Ride: E46 330, E60 550 on order: Carbon Black/Natural Brown, 6MT.
The 528 is nearly perfect 50-50.
The 535 had additional weight in the front of the wheels in the form of two turbos, their plumbing, and a big intercooler. Much of this is far out in front of the front tires. Hence the weight distribution is worse.
The 550 is heavier, but the engine is shorter, and sits farther back in the engine bay than the long I6, so the weight distribution is similar to the 535, despite the extra pounds.
11-28-2007, 11:54 AM
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Originally Posted by redwhiteblue' post='500116' date='Nov 28 2007, 09:10 PM
I have posted this question in about 3 threads but never got an answer and I hate starting new ones but I really want the answer. The question is how do they maintain a 50 50 weight balance in a 550 or any big v8 bmw. What balances the heavier engine out that the I6s do not have.
The weight would not be a perfect 50:50, yet they use aluminium or carbon composites to help ensure weight is distributed as evenly as possible.
11-28-2007, 12:02 PM
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My Ride: 2006 BMW 550i "Ben Hogan's 5 Iron"
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Originally Posted by redwhiteblue' post='500116' date='Nov 28 2007, 02:10 PM
I have posted this question in about 3 threads but never got an answer and I hate starting new ones but I really want the answer. The question is how do they maintain a 50 50 weight balance in a 550 or any big v8 bmw. What balances the heavier engine out that the I6s do not have.
The 550 is slightly nose heavy compared to the 530/5 models. I think the engine is 100-150 pounds heavier and there is also more weight in some of the drive-line components. Bigger wheel bearings, brakes snf etc. That said, not a big difference, though you can feel it when driving the cars back to back. For some reason, I liked the more massy feel of the 550, the go and lower profile. Of course the 535 wasn't out when I got my car. The 50/50 weight balance is somewhat overhyped by BMW, as weight balance dynamically change as a car changes direction, brakes, acceralates, and yada yada. Rear bias is probably better. Look at the mid engined cars. Nose heavy cars pretty much suck.
CVT Benhogan
11-28-2007, 12:20 PM
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My Ride: E46 330, E60 550 on order: Carbon Black/Natural Brown, 6MT.
See comments in bold
Originally Posted by CVTBenhogan' post='500198' date='Nov 28 2007, 04:02 PM
The 550 is slightly nose heavy compared to the 530/5 models. Yes, it carries 0.2% more over the front wheels. 0.2% of 3,946 lbs is just under 8 lbs.
I think the engine is 100-150 pounds heavier and there is also more weight in some of the drive-line components. Bigger wheel bearings, brakes snf etc.
Bigger than the 528, but the same as the 535.
<other insightful comments deleted>
I think the engine is 100-150 pounds heavier and there is also more weight in some of the drive-line components. Bigger wheel bearings, brakes snf etc.
Bigger than the 528, but the same as the 535.
<other insightful comments deleted>
11-28-2007, 05:14 PM
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My Ride: 2008 535i, 6spd mtx, Monaco Blue w/Beige interior. Sport, Preimum, Logic 7/HD/I-Pod/USB, Nav sys, rear sunshade, HUD, PDC, Split seats,
Curious, does the 550i locate the battery in the trunk like my bro's 740il? The 535 is under the hood so that could be part of the difference 
11-28-2007, 05:24 PM
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Originally Posted by HotLap' post='500341' date='Nov 28 2007, 09:14 PM
Curious, does the 550i locate the battery in the trunk like my bro's 740il? The 535 is under the hood so that could be part of the difference
