1985 Audi 200 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Audi 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Audi 200 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1985 Audi 200. (180 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Audi 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1985 Audi 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Audi 200, 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Audi 200. (252 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Audi 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Audi 200 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 200 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2142 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
