1996 Audi A4 vs. 2008 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 316. 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, 2008 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2008 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
