2004 Audi S4 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 525 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | S4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
