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) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (256 HP) 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 670 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A8. (330 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A8.
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 | 3123 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 329 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 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 | 1275 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
