2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 1996 BMW 525. 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 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
