2004 Audi A2 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi A2 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 Audi A2. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 426 kg more than 2004 Audi A2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A2, 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, 1996 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A2. (155 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A2 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A2 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
