VS
At a Glance
Power
563hp @ 6000
590hp @ 8000
Torque
590lb-ft @ 2500
586lb-ft @ 5000
Fuel
20 mpg est.
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Engine
4.0 L/244ci
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Choosing between the Audi A8 and the BMW I5 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi A8 delivers 563hp @ 6000 while the BMW I5 produces 590hp @ 8000. Pricing starts at $130,000 for the A8 and $84,100 for the I5. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
563hp @ 6000
590hp @ 8000
Torque (lb-ft)
590lb-ft @ 2500
586lb-ft @ 5000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
4.0 L/244ci
—
Cylinders
8
—
Fuel Type
—
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
20 mpg est.
—
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
15mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
24mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
21.7gal
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Dimensions
Length (in)
209in
199.2in
Width (in)
76.6in
74.8in
Height (in)
58.6in
59.6in
Wheelbase (in)
123.2in
117.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5126lbs
5247lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
BMW I5
2 / 4 categories
Performance
I5
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
I5
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Audi A8
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
BMW I5
Lower starting price ($84,100)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the A8 or I5?
The A8 produces 563hp @ 6000 and 590lb-ft @ 2500 of torque while the I5 delivers 590hp @ 8000 and 586lb-ft @ 5000 of torque. The I5 is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the A8 and I5?
The A8 starts from $130,000 and the I5 from $84,100. The I5 is cheaper by $45,900 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the A8 or the I5?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider