2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 535
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 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, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 535. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 535. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
