2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 530 (188 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 530 weights approximately 298 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 530 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 530. 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, 1988 BMW 530 (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 530 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 530 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 530 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 261 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1593 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |