2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1986 BMW 325.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 325. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1986 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
