2008 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 574 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 2008 Audi A4 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, 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 230 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1794 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 |