2006 Audi A6 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2006 Audi A6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A6 (178 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A6 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Audi A6 (380 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A6 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
