2008 BMW 550 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo

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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 286 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 364 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Polo, 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 @ 3400 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (196 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 2004 Volkswagen Polo
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 550 Polo
Year Released 2008 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4800 cc 1422 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 360 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 489 Nm 196 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 241 km/hour 165 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.5 seconds 14.7 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1730 kg 1366 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 3910 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1530 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.8 L/100km 4.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L