2006 BMW 550 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 362 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 550 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 550 Golf
Year Released 2006 2008
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4801 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 360 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 488 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.4 L/100km 6.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L