2009 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Audi V8
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi V8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi V8 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1988 Audi V8. (247 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi V8.
Because 1988 Audi V8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Audi V8 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, 1988 Audi V8 (340 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1988 Audi V8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 1988 Audi V8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Audi V8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1988 Audi V8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | V8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
