2004 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A8 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1830 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
