2008 Audi S8 vs. 1996 BMW 840
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 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 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 162 more horse power than 1996 BMW 840. (282 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 840. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S8 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1996 BMW 840. 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 840. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 840. (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 840.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S8 | 1996 BMW 840 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | 840 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
