2008 Audi A3 vs. 1983 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1983 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2691 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
