1986 BMW M5 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 M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 14 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW M5 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 1986 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M5. (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M5 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 55 L |
