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, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1988 BMW 535.
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, 2004 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
