1998 Audi A4 vs. 2004 BMW 525
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1998 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A4. 2004 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A4 | 2004 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
