2002 Audi A8 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 2002 Audi A8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,697 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A8 (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A8 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1981 BMW 745. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 745. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1981 BMW 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A8. (360 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A8 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 745 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3697 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 100 L |
