2006 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 740 (315 HP) has 59 more horse power than 2006 Audi A8. (256 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 90 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 2012 BMW 740 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 BMW 740 (447 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A8. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5075 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 82 L |
