2007 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 17 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, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1990 BMW 525. (185 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 141 kg more than 2007 Audi A3.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
