1999 Audi S8 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1999 Audi S8. (247 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S8.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW M12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S8. (330 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S8. 1999 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
