2001 Audi A3 vs. 1986 BMW 735
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 735. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 735 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 735 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 735 (220 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 735 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 735 weights approximately 365 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 735 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 735. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 735. (315 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 735.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1986 BMW 735 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 735 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
