2005 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 535
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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (306 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
