1989 BMW 850 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2003 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 850 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
