2001 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 518
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 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 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 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
