2008 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 BMW 550. (400 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 550. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Audi A8.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (541 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
