1991 Audi S2 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 1991 Audi S2 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1991 Audi S2. (216 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Audi S2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Audi S2 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1991 Audi S2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Audi S2 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, 1991 Audi S2 (309 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1991 Audi S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Audi S2 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S2 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 309 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
