2001 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 380 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 525 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 525. 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
