2003 Audi A3 vs. 1986 BMW 325
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1986 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.6 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 | 1205 kg | 1160 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 | 55 L |
