2009 Audi A4 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 182 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 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 450 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
