1980 Audi 80 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi 80 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 973 kg more than 1980 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Audi 80, 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 386 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (104 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2690 mm |
