2005 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Audi A4. (168 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2005 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A4. (231 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
