2004 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,122 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2004 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3122 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
