2009 Audi S4 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2009 Audi S4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 680 kg more than 2009 Audi S4.
Because 2009 Audi S4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S4 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 S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (306 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S4 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
