2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 524
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 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 524. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2770 mm |
