2009 Audi R8 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2009 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi R8 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | R8 | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1951 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 430 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 301 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |