2006 Audi A8 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Audi A8. 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 1997 BMW 850. 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) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1945 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 |
