2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 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 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 2303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
