1981 Audi 100 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 31 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 365 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 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2497 mm |
