2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 BMW 730
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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 730 weights approximately 226 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 1996 BMW 730 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 730. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
