2008 Audi A3 vs. 1989 BMW 518
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1989 BMW 518.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. 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, 1989 BMW 518 (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1989 BMW 518 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 518 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1766 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |