1988 Audi 90 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 1988 Audi 90 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1988 Audi 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Audi 90 (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Audi 90 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1988 Audi 90.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Audi 90, 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, 1988 Audi 90 (172 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Audi 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 90 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 90 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2630 mm |
