2006 Audi S4 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 4,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2006 Audi S4.
Because 2006 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4162 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
