1998 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 525
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 525 (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 525 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 2004 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 BMW 525 (237 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
