2005 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 294 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 2005 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 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, 1988 BMW M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2302 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 58 L |
