1999 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi A4 weights approximately 65 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, 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 1999 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | M3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2303 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |