2008 Audi S8 vs. 1996 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 Audi S8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1996 BMW 530. (193 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S8 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1996 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 530. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 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 S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530. 2008 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 1996 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
