2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,981 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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 (300 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2981 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
