2002 Audi TT vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2002 Audi TT is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2002 Audi TT. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi TT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi TT weights approximately 140 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi TT, 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi TT. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi TT.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi TT | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | TT | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
