2009 Audi A8 vs. 1988 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 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 2,772 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Audi A8. (207 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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 A8, 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 A8 (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A8 | 1988 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A8 | M3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2772 cc | 2303 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 207 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6750 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 93.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |