1996 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A8 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A8 (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 1996 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 63 L |
