2009 Audi A4 vs. 1990 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 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 320 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
