2007 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2007 Audi A8. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 535. 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, 2007 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535. 2007 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 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 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
