2008 Audi A4 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2012 BMW 520 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 2012 BMW 520. 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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
