2004 Audi TT vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2004 Audi TT 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi TT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi TT (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi TT weights approximately 180 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 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 (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi TT | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | TT | 518 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
