1997 Audi A8 vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2008 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
