2006 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 725
To start off, 2006 Audi A4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2006 Audi A4.
Because 1996 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 725 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 725 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 725 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2940 mm |
