1997 Audi A8 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 167 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 850 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A8 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 850 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 4988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1792 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |