2004 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,981 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A4 (300 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2981 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
