1989 Audi 100 vs. 1999 BMW 540
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 100 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 521 kg more than 1989 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 1999 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 100, 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (188 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 1999 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1771 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
