2002 Audi S3 vs. 1985 BMW M5
To start off, 2002 Audi S3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 BMW M5 (256 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW M5 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2002 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 BMW M5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 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, 1985 BMW M5 (290 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1985 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 1985 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | M5 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
