2004 Audi A8 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A8 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3000 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |