1981 Audi 80 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 28 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 472 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 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 550. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1981 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1981 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 4799 cc |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1662 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |
