2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 21 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1988 BMW 525.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
