1989 Audi 200 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 1989 Audi 200 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1989 Audi 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi 200 (180 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 200 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi 200 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 200, 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, 1989 Audi 200 (253 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Audi 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Audi 200 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | 200 | 520 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 253 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 66 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |