1998 Audi S8 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 1998 Audi S8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi S8 (335 HP) has 200 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi S8 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi S8 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, 1998 Audi S8 (557 Nm) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm). This means 1998 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Audi S8 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | S8 | 520 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1951 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 335 HP | 135 HP |
Torque | 557 Nm | 280 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2770 mm |