2006 Audi A3 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
