2005 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 730
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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 730 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 730 weights approximately 285 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 1990 BMW 730 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 730. 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, 1990 BMW 730 (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 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 | 1315 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
