2003 Audi A8 vs. 1978 BMW 725
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 1978 BMW 725 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 1978 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A8 | 1978 BMW 725 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 725 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2495 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 215 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 71.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |