1996 Audi A4 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (311 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 BMW X3 (630 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
