2003 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
