2009 Audi A4 vs. 1984 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 1984 BMW 318. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1984 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 178 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 | 1510 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
