2001 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2001 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A4 (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2001 Audi A4.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
