1996 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 8 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 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1996 Audi A4.
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, 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, 1996 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 524 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
