2001 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 10 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2001 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 550 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3695 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |