1981 BMW 528 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (169 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 2004 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 528 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
