2001 Audi A4 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A4 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2001 Audi A4. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2001 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A4. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A4. 2001 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
