2008 Audi A3 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 490 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 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
