2012 Audi A3 vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2690 mm |
