2006 Audi S3 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2006 Audi S3 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 74 more horse power than 2006 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 362 kg more than 2006 Audi S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1792 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
