2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW 730
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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 730 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1988 BMW 730 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 730. 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 730 (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 730 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 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
