2001 Audi A8 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2011 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 520.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 520. (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
