2008 Audi A3 vs. 1994 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1994 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1994 BMW 316. 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 1994 BMW 316. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 316. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1994 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1994 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1994 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
