2007 Audi S4 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 Audi S4 is newer by 26 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S4 weights approximately 55 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 2007 Audi S4 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, 2007 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 2007 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S4 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
