2001 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. 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 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2730 mm |
