2001 Audi A8 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4799 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 331 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
