2001 Audi A8 vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2012 Nissan 370Z is newer by 11 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 252 kg more than 2012 Nissan 370Z.
Because 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 2012 Nissan 370Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2012 Nissan 370Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan 370Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan 370Z has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan 370Z 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 | 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A8 | 370Z |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3695 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4247 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 72 L |
