1997 Audi A8 vs. 2007 BMW 523
To start off, 2007 BMW 523 is newer by 10 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2007 BMW 523.
Because 2007 BMW 523 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 2007 BMW 523. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2007 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
