1999 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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, 1999 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
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, 1999 Audi A4, 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, 1999 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.7 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
