2004 Audi A6 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Audi A6 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A6 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A6 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1990 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A6, 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 A6 (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A6 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 221 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
