1990 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
