2001 Audi A8 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A8 (380 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A8 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 92 L | 70 L |