2008 Audi A8 vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Audi A8.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
