2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
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 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, 2004 Audi A4 (218 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (215 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. 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 535. 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 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 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 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 52 L |
