2008 Audi A8 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (445 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1997 BMW 850. (329 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1997 BMW 850. 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 1997 BMW 850. 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 (580 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 850. (490 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 445 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2690 mm |
