2008 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 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 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
