2009 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
