1996 Audi A4 vs. 1986 BMW 325
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1986 BMW 325 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1986 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
