2002 Audi A3 vs. 1984 BMW 316
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1984 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
