1986 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP) has 114 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 316 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
