1998 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 11 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (155 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 245 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3. 2009 BMW 120 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. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |
