2008 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 71.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
