1987 Audi 80 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 1987 Audi 80 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1987 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Audi 80, 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, 1974 BMW 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2650 mm |
