2002 Audi A8 vs. 1984 BMW 316
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1984 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1767 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
