2006 Audi RS4 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 Audi RS4 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, 2006 Audi RS4 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850.
Because 2006 Audi RS4 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 RS4 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi RS4. (430 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi RS4. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi RS4 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi RS4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi RS4 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | RS4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2690 mm |
