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 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 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 361 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 @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1895 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1721 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 |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
