1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 120
To start off, 2004 BMW 120 is newer by 8 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 120 (141 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 120 weights approximately 201 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 2004 BMW 120 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 2004 BMW 120. 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, 2004 BMW 120 (200 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
