1988 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1999 Audi S3.
Because 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 520 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
