1981 Audi 80 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80, 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, 2008 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Audi 80 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | 80 | M3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1296 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 100 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |