1981 Audi 80 vs. 1998 BMW 325
To start off, 1998 BMW 325 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 1998 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1998 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
