1996 Audi A3 vs. 1997 BMW 730
To start off, 1997 BMW 730 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 730 weights approximately 599 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 1997 BMW 730 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 730. 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, 1997 BMW 730 (279 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1997 BMW 730 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 730 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 279 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |