1997 Audi A4 vs. 2013 BMW 1 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 1 Series is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 1 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 1 Series should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 1 Series weights approximately 375 kg more than 1997 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 1 Series 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 2013 BMW 1 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 1 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 1 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2013 BMW 1 Series | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 1 Series |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4373 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1919 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1408 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
