2008 Audi A3 vs. 1994 BMW 520
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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 520 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 51 kg more than 1994 BMW 520.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 BMW 520. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1994 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
