2009 Audi A3 vs. 1983 BMW 323
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 323 weights approximately 232 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 1983 BMW 323 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 1983 BMW 323. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1983 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 76.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1127 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
