2005 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 17 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 524 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2770 mm |
