2005 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 850
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 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 850 (297 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 180 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 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 850. 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, 1990 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 850 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 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
