1996 Audi A3 vs. 1986 BMW 316
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 316 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 1986 BMW 316. 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 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1986 BMW 316 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 316 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1573 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 86 HP |
Torque | 210 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |