1981 Audi 100 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 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 315 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. 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, 1981 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
