2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 69 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (196 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
