2008 Audi A8 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 36 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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 440 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 1972 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A8 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2640 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |