2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 316 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 316 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 15.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |