2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 BMW 740
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 28 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 1998 BMW 740. 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 1998 BMW 740. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1998 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 286 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 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1968 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 95 L |
