1997 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 144 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | M3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2302 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 192 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |