1998 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Audi 90
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi 90 would be higher. At 2,308 cc (5 cylinders), 1989 Audi 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi 90 (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi 90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi 90 weights approximately 137 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Audi 90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi 90 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, 1989 Audi 90 (188 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Audi 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1989 Audi 90 | |
| Make | Audi | Audi |
| Model | A3 | 90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1277 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2540 mm |
