2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 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 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 124 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
