1996 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 630
To start off, 2004 BMW 630 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 630 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 630 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 630 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 630 weights approximately 630 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 630 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 630. 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 630 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 630 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2004 BMW 630 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 630 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 630 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 630 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1776 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
