1999 Audi A4 vs. 1978 BMW 730
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (248 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
Because 1999 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Audi A4 (339 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1978 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 730 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2810 mm |
