1996 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 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, both vehicles can yield 300 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1996 Audi A8.
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, 2012 BMW X5 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A8. (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 89 L | 85 L |
