Audi A8L or BMW 740iL ?

[ycchan]

I've been considering leasing a used 2000 Audi A8L or 2001 BMW 740iL but can't decide which one I should get.
Some factors I have considered are how the car would perform in snow conditions. (I live in Canada)
I think Audi should be better because of its Quattro AWD.
Also reliability is an issue. I've seen a couple of websites dedicated for people to who have complained about the reliabilty of the 7 series (1998) versions. I'm not sure how better or worse Audi is. I would like to recall on maintenance and how frequently and expensive they are. I know BMWs have service indicators.
I saw both cars on ebay sold at $US 39,000 with most options such as premium sound systems, GPS etc

If possible any one of you who are owning or have drove these cars before, please speak out because I need your opinions.


here are examples:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...tem=1848079599

and

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...tem=1848045325


Thanks

[Freesock]

A8

[bobafett]

I love the E38 body style, so I'd have to vote 7.

--Dan

[Micsor/DK]

aghhhhhhh....that´s a hard one, but I would go for the Seven.

You are getting one of the last of this series and one with almost zero faults. The A8 may look a little newer and fresher, but you can´t go wrong with the BMW.

[TCM]

I love both of these cars. The A8 is my favorite model out of the entire Audi line up. If you could spring for an S8, I think that is what I would go for but if you are just planning on getting the basic A8, I would say the 740iL. The 7 series handles better and is quicker. Try to get the sport package on the 7 if you can.

[kevin034]

A8. No second thoughts.

[Freesock]

You guys do realize he lives in Canada right?

[polvoronn]

though they're both great cars, I'dsay go for the 7 (but I am biased)

[ycchan]

Originally posted by Freesock
You guys do realize he lives in Canada right?

Ahh yes thanks for reminding everyone.

I see most of the opinions are based on looks and not practicality.

[MEnthusiast]

what will help most in snow is real snow tires- not awd or 4wd. awd/4wd is nice to have to help get going, but after that its just added weight IMHO. I would look at the 7 for a variety of reasons, not the least being that gfb you bend the frame, the frame of the A8 will be a nightmare as its aluminum. I have this on the Z8, but the Z8 is not my daily driver. also the 7 is better looking and will drive sportier. All that said, the A8 is a very nice car and I like it very much. Id be going with the 7 though.