2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 243 kg more than 2009 Audi A4. 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, 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 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 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 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1593 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
