1998 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3.
Because 2009 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4799 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
