1998 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 325 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
