2004 Audi RS4 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 2004 Audi RS4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi RS4 (376 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi RS4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2004 Audi RS4.
Because 2004 Audi RS4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi RS4 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 RS4 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi RS4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi RS4 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | RS4 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
