1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Audi S5
To start off, 2011 Audi S5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S5 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S5 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, 2011 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi S5 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi S5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2011 Audi S5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 320 | S5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
