2005 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 530
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 32 kg more than 1988 BMW 530.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1593 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
