1988 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
