2009 Audi A8 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Audi A8. 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 1997 BMW 850. 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A8. (360 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3696 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
