2003 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
