1997 BMW 316 vs. 2013 Audi A3
To start off, 2013 Audi A3 is newer by 16 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Audi A3 (138 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Audi A3 weights approximately 195 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 2013 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2013 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 316 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4292 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
