1981 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Audi TT
To start off, 2009 Audi TT is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi TT (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi TT weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi TT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi TT 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 Audi TT (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2009 Audi TT has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi TT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2009 Audi TT | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 520 | TT |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
