2008 Audi A4 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A4 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 239 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2008 Audi A4. 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, 2008 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
