1989 Audi 100 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 23 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 730 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 2012 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2968 mm |
