2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2443 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1428 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
