2009 Audi A4 vs. 1974 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. 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 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1974 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
