1989 BMW 730 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 BMW 730. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 730 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 1989 BMW 730 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 1989 BMW 730. 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 730. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 730. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 730 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:
| 1989 BMW 730 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 730 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
