1997 Audi A8 vs. 2001 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 BMW 520 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Audi A8. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 520 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1997 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A8 | 2001 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |