2004 Audi A3 vs. 1989 BMW 730
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 730 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 71 more horse power than 1989 BMW 730. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 730 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 730. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 730. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 730. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1989 BMW 730 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 | 1989 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
