2006 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A8 (329 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 313 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1542 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 |
