1985 Audi 100 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1985 Audi 100. (70 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1985 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 100, 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 100. (123 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 100 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
