1997 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
