1990 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1990 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 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 A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 520 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
Make | BMW | Audi |
Model | 520 | A3 |
Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |