1996 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | 850 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1255 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |