2007 Audi A3 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 18 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 99 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 293 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2007 Audi A3 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, 2007 Audi A3 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 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
