2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 165 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 1988 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 1988 BMW 525. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 525 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 239 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 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 | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |