2006 Audi A3 vs. 1991 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW 525 (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 525 weights approximately 265 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 1991 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 1991 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, 1991 BMW 525 (260 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1991 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 | 1991 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1560 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 | 80 L |
