2001 Audi A8 vs. 1981 BMW 525
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. 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 1981 BMW 525. 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 (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 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 | 1981 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 8.6 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 | 2540 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
