2006 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 525 (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 370 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 1990 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 1990 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, 1990 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1575 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 |
