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 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 2001 Audi A4. (89 HP @ 6000 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 124 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 2008 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A4. (225 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.
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 | 2393 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
