1984 BMW 316 vs. 2001 Audi S3
To start off, 2001 Audi S3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi S3 weights approximately 456 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi S3 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, 2001 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 2001 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 316 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
