1986 Audi 80 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Audi 80 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1986 Audi 80. (115 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1986 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1986 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Audi 80. (173 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Audi 80. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1986 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1986 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Audi 80 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
