2008 Audi S3 vs. 1996 BMW 535
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 BMW 535. (235 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Audi S3.
Because 2008 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 535. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi S3 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 S3 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 535. (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 1996 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
