2004 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 1981 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A4 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
