2012 Audi A3 vs. 1984 BMW 316
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 386 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 316 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 1984 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1984 BMW 316 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 316 |
Year Released | 2012 | 1984 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1573 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1074 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |