1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 239 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 120 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.0:1 |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |