1981 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1981 BMW 525.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | 525 | A3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |