2005 Audi A8 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A8 (431 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
