2009 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 316

To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A8 1990 BMW 316
Make Audi BMW
Model A8 316
Year Released 2009 1990
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2976 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 141 Nm
Torque RPM 8200 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
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 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 70 L


 

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