1997 Audi A8 vs. 2013 BMW 7 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 7 Series is newer by 16 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), 2013 BMW 7 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 7 Series (311 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 7 Series should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 7 Series weights approximately 348 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 2013 BMW 7 Series 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 2013 BMW 7 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 7 Series (447 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A8. (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 7 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 2013 BMW 7 Series | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 7 Series |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| 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 | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.2 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5214 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2134 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
