1996 Audi A3 vs. 1992 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1992 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1721 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
