2007 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2007 Audi A4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A4 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A4 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, 2007 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
