1996 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW 330
To start off, 2007 BMW 330 is newer by 11 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 330 weights approximately 365 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2007 BMW 330 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. 2007 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2007 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
