2008 BMW X5 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X5 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2011 BMW 550.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X5 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
