2004 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 850
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 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1990 BMW 850.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 850. 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
