1996 Audi A4 vs. 2007 BMW 550
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 550 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 2007 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 2007 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2007 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
