1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 123 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 520 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 1981 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 66 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |