2004 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 528
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 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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 (380 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
