2009 Audi S3 vs. 1988 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Audi S3.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi S3 | 1988 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | S3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 66 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |