2008 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 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 121 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4134 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 51 L |
