2003 Audi A3 vs. 1987 BMW 730
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1987 BMW 730. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1987 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 730. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 730. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1987 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1602 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
