2003 Audi A3 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1992 BMW 540.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 BMW 540. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1650 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
