2006 Audi S4 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 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 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
