2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 134 kg more than 1996 BMW 520.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. 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 (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
