2005 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 16 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (218 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 300 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, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518. 2005 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1160 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
