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 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (171 HP @ 6200 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 460 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 (245 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (225 Nm). 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 | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
