1977 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Audi R8

To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (518 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi R8 (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520. 2009 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1977 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1977 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 BMW 520 2009 Audi R8
Make BMW Audi
Model 520 R8
Year Released 1977 2009
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1990 cc 5204 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 10 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 120 HP 518 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 8000 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 530 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 6500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 12.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 180 km/hour 316 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12 seconds 3.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1940 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 75 L