1992 BMW 540 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 540 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
