2001 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A4 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
