2008 Audi A3 vs. 1993 BMW 856
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 856. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 856 would be higher. At 5,576 cc (12 cylinders), 1993 BMW 856 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW 856 (376 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW 856 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW 856 weights approximately 525 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 1993 BMW 856 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 1993 BMW 856. 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, 1993 BMW 856 (550 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 BMW 856 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1993 BMW 856 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 856 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5576 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
