2004 Audi TT vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Audi TT is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi TT (180 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi TT weights approximately 165 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi TT, 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 TT (225 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi TT | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | TT | 518 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1754 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
