2009 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (158 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 518 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
