2008 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 320
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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1990 BMW 320. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 319 kg more than 1990 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 320. 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) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 320. (224 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
