1995 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Audi A3

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2006 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1995 BMW 317 2006 Audi A3
Make BMW Audi
Model 317 A3
Year Released 1995 2006
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1665 cc 1593 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83 mm 77.4 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1215 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L