1996 Audi A6 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,391 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Audi A6.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A6. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2391 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
