2008 BMW 550 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Jetta 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 260 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 550 Jetta
Year Released 2008 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4800 cc 1967 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 360 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 489 Nm 240 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1730 kg 1385 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4420 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 10.7 L/100km 5 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 15.7 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.8 L/100km 5.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L