2009 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1040 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 550 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
