2009 Audi A4 vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (208 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 M1. 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 116 L |
