2004 Audi S4 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 4,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2004 Audi S4 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi S4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4162 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
