2009 Audi A5 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 Audi A5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 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 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2009 Audi A5.
Because 2009 Audi A5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A5 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A5 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
