1981 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Audi A4
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2008 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 2008 Audi A4 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | 518 | A4 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2975 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |