1998 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. 2012 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 BMW 550 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | Polo | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2968 mm |