2007 Audi A8 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A8 (322 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2007 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Audi A8 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4134 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 322 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 650 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |