I think if you are going to spend this kind of coin you should compare both models in your own listening room. If a dealer won't let you do that find another one. IMO a good dealer should arrange this for you as we're not talking about pocket change. Both speakers really need a large room to perform at their best (especially the 801d). At the risk of offending some people statements about the 801d design not making sense is rubbish. B&W is a very well respected company in the development of loudspeaker technology and as such there is a reason why the woofer is 15" in the 801d system. When they are set up in a proper room with an appropriate system they are fantastic! Most of us are not speaker designers and there is no concrete rule that a woofer must be a certain size in relation to the midrange. Trust your ears over any preconceptions about design. Good luck!
