1976 Audi 100 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1976 Audi 100. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1976 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 583 kg more than 1976 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Audi 100, 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Audi 100. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Audi 100 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
