1999 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi A4 (247 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1999 Audi A4.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Audi A4 (321 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1999 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316. 1999 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
