1996 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (193 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
Because 1996 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2771 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
