2009 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1990 BMW 525. 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 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 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 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 | 1990 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
