2001 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
