1987 Audi 80 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 650 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 2011 BMW 520 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 2011 BMW 520. 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, 2011 BMW 520 (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80. 2011 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1987 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1987 Audi 80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2968 mm |
