1989 Audi 80 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 1989 Audi 80 is newer by 1 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 147 more horse power than 1989 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1989 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Audi 80, 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 M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi 80. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi 80 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | 80 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2690 mm |
