1989 Audi 100 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 100 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1989 Audi 100. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1989 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 100, 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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 100. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 100 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 100 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
