1996 Audi A3 vs. 1981 BMW 528
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 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 154 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1981 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 528 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 212 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 | 1146 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
