2009 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
