1988 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Audi A4
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (169 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4. 2004 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
