2002 Audi S4 vs. 1990 BMW 850
To start off, 2002 Audi S4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1990 BMW 850. (297 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 Audi S4.
Because 2002 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S4. (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S4 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 52 L |
