2003 Audi A8 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A8 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 35 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2012 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 520 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 BMW 520. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 520. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 520. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
