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, 2004 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2004 Audi A4.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (230 Nm @ 3200 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 | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 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 | 70 L | 80 L |
