1988 Audi 200 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi 200 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1988 Audi 200. (180 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Audi 200 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Audi 200. (252 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Audi 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 200 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 200 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
