1997 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW X5
To start off, 2001 BMW X5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW X5 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW X5 weights approximately 445 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 2001 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Audi A8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 BMW X5 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW X5. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2001 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 93 L |
