2004 Audi A8 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 7 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 109 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 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 50 kg more than 1997 BMW 850.
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, 2004 Audi A8, 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 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:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2690 mm |
