2009 Audi A4 vs. 1972 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 37 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 210 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 1972 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A4 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (165 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1972 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
