1999 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 850
To start off, 1999 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1999 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1999 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2690 mm |
