2005 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
