2009 Audi A3 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 518 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1990 BMW 518 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 1990 BMW 518. 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 518. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 518 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 161 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |