2004 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW M
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 1998 BMW M 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 1998 BMW M. 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, 1998 BMW M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW M | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 51 L |
