1999 Audi S8 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 1999 Audi S8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S8 (335 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S8 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. 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, 1999 Audi S8 (331 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi S8 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 66 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
