1996 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 16 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 118 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520.
Because 1996 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 520. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 520. (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 70 L |
