2007 Audi S3 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 87 kg more than 2007 Audi S3.
Because 2007 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
