2005 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW 325
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 325 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 1996 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
