2004 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 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 450 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (235 Nm). This means 1990 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 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
