2006 Audi A8 vs. 1993 BMW 856
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 856. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 856 would be higher. At 5,576 cc (12 cylinders), 1993 BMW 856 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW 856 (376 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW 856 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1993 BMW 856.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 BMW 856. 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 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 856. (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 856. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1993 BMW 856 has manual transmission. 1993 BMW 856 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1993 BMW 856 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 856 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 5576 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1865 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 |
