2006 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2006 Audi A4. (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A4 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2006 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 850. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 850. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
