1988 BMW 524 vs. 2009 Audi A4
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. 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 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2009 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 524 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
