2004 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2004 Audi A4. (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 40 kg more than 1996 BMW 535.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (235 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
