2008 BMW 550 vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi S3 would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1999 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1999 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S3 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, 1999 Audi S3 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 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 550 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
