2009 Audi A4 vs. 1988 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 2009 Audi A4 (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A4 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A4 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2302 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 192 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |