2005 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
