1996 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 645
To start off, 2003 BMW 645 is newer by 7 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 645 (325 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 645 weights approximately 544 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 2003 BMW 645 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 2003 BMW 645. 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, 2003 BMW 645 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 645 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 645 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
