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, 2007 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1996 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 10 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 | 3123 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 235 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
