2006 Audi S4 vs. 1988 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 BMW 530. (188 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 287 kg more than 1988 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 1988 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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, 2006 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 530. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1988 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1593 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
