2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2004 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
