1999 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M5
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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (163 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M5 weights approximately 413 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M5 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 M5. 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 M5 (360 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (234 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3533 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1733 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2770 mm |
