2008 Audi A8 vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4134 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
