2008 Audi A3 vs. 1986 BMW 730
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 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 730 (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 730 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 730 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 1986 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 730. (275 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 730. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 730 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 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
