2009 Audi A5 vs. 1981 BMW 528
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A5 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2009 Audi A5.
Because 2009 Audi A5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 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 A5 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528. 2009 Audi A5 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | 528 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
