2003 Audi A6 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2003 Audi A6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2003 Audi A6. (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2003 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A6, 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A6. (370 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A6. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A6 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A6 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2690 mm |
