1996 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 396 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 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
