2006 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2006 Audi A8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A8 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2006 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M. 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 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M. (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M. 2006 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M 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 | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | M |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
