2009 Audi A3 vs. 1985 BMW 324
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1985 BMW 324. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1985 BMW 324 has manual transmission. 1985 BMW 324 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1985 BMW 324 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 324 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 15.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
