1987 Audi 80 vs. 2012 BMW 530
To start off, 2012 BMW 530 is newer by 25 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 530 weights approximately 690 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 2012 BMW 530 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 2012 BMW 530. 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, 2012 BMW 530 (310 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80. 2012 BMW 530 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. 2012 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2012 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 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 | 1710 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 |
