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 20 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (218 HP @ 5900 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 395 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. 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, 2009 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 60 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 | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
