2006 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Quantum. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 550 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Quantum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Quantum. (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Quantum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 1996 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
