1989 BMW 518 vs. 2011 Audi S3
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2011 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 518 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
