1988 BMW 524 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 524 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
