1990 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Audi A4
To start off, 2012 Audi A4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A4 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A4 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A4 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2012 Audi A4 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 316 | A4 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4704 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2809 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
