1999 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 740
To start off, 1999 Audi A4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 740 weights approximately 660 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 1996 BMW 740 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 1996 BMW 740. 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, 1996 BMW 740 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 1996 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
