2006 Audi S3 vs. 1988 BMW 535
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 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 S3 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S3 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 S3 | 1988 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 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 | 1430 kg | 1630 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
