1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 9 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 320. 2005 BMW 320 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. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
