2008 Audi A6 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (296 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Audi A6.
Because 2008 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A6. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
