2001 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 345 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 1988 BMW 520 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 520. 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |