2008 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 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 | 241 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
