1996 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 BMW 520 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 520 (170 HP) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 520 weights approximately 536 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 520 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 520. 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 520 (210 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 520 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 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
