2006 Audi S4 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 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 198 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 317 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. 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 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
