2002 Audi A8 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2002 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (225 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
