2003 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Buick Electra
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 Audi A8.
Because 1978 Buick Electra 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 Buick Electra. 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1978 Buick Electra | |
| Make | Audi | Buick |
| Model | A8 | Electra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 5730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 97.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3030 mm |
