2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M1 weights approximately 486 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M1 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 1980 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1980 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1980 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |
