1997 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Audi S3
To start off, 2004 Audi S3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S3 weights approximately 113 kg more than 1997 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi S3 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, 2004 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2004 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 316 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
