2008 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
