1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 525
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 525 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 525 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 525. 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 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 BMW 525 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. 2004 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 525 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 525 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |