1996 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 650
To start off, 2009 BMW 650 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 650 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 650 weights approximately 385 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 650 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 650. 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 650 (490 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 650 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 650 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 650 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
