2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 730
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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 730 weights approximately 220 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 1988 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 1988 BMW 730. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1380 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
