1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 528
To start off, 2008 BMW 528 is newer by 12 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 528 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 528 weights approximately 200 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 2008 BMW 528 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 2008 BMW 528. 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, 2008 BMW 528 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 528 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 241 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 | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
