1996 Audi A8 vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 10 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 111 more horse power than 2006 BMW Z4. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A8 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2006 BMW Z4. 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 2006 BMW Z4. 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 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW Z4. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 55 L |
