2008 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
