2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,696 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1996 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 1996 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 (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1996 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 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3696 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
