1996 Audi A3 vs. 2013 BMW X3
To start off, 2013 BMW X3 is newer by 17 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW X3 (237 HP) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW X3 weights approximately 731 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 2013 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 BMW X3 (353 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2013 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2013 BMW X3 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. 2013 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2013 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 237 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2098 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
