2004 Audi A8 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A8 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 2004 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A8 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 330 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 430 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |