2002 Audi A8 vs. 1986 BMW 730
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 730 (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 730 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2002 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 730 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 1986 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 730. (275 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 730. 2002 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1986 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2800 mm |
