1997 Audi A6 vs. 1972 BMW 520

To start off, 1997 Audi A6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Audi A6. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Audi A6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A6, 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, 1997 Audi A6 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520. 1997 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Audi A6 1972 BMW 520
Make Audi BMW
Model A6 520
Year Released 1997 1972
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1781 cc 1991 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81.1 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 66 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 11.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.5 seconds 10.6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1405 kg 1445 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L