1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 520 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 BMW 550 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. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4799 cc |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 360 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 490 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |