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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520.
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 (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 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 | 1781 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 12.3 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 | 1230 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
