2008 BMW 550 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 329 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1982 cc |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
