2003 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
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 Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 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 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. 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 Z1. 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 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1. 2003 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 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 Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
