2009 Audi A8 vs. 1996 BMW 540
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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. 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 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 540 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 540 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 540 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 272 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 650 Nm | 440 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |