2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. 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 535 (306 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 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 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1610 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
