1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 330
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 330 weights approximately 475 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 2005 BMW 330 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 330. 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, 2005 BMW 330 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
