2007 Audi A8 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2007 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 16 kg more than 2007 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A8. (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A8. 2007 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 850 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A8 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1776 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
