1971 Audi Variant vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Audi Variant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Audi Variant would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1971 Audi Variant. (53 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 Audi Variant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1146 kg more than 1971 Audi Variant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Audi Variant, 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 496 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Audi Variant. (113 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Audi Variant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Audi Variant | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | Variant | 550 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1696 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3071 mm |
