1972 Buick GS vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1972 Buick GS. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Buick GS.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Buick GS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A8 (550 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Buick GS. (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Buick GS. 2012 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1972 Buick GS has manual transmission. 1972 Buick GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Buick GS | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | Buick | Audi |
| Model | GS | A8 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5723 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2992 mm |
