2009 Audi A6 vs. 1981 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A6 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1981 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6, 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 A6 (231 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518. 2009 Audi A6 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 518 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A6 | 1981 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 518 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
