1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW X5
To start off, 1999 BMW X5 is newer by 3 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), 1999 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW X5 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW X5 weights approximately 830 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 1999 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 BMW X5 (281 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1999 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1999 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 67 L |
