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 5,998 cc, 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 344 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 915 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 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. 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 (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 439 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. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 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 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1995 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
