1996 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 15 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), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3.
Because 2011 BMW 520 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 2011 BMW 520. 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, 2011 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2011 BMW 520 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. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1462 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |