1989 Audi 80 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1989 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1989 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 80. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 80 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2890 mm |
