2008 BMW 550 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (240 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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, 1999 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 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 550 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 491 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
