1998 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 535
To start off, 2008 BMW 535 is newer by 10 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 535 weights approximately 275 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 2008 BMW 535 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 535 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, 2008 BMW 535 (408 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2008 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1998 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1998 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
