1998 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 13 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 180 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 2011 BMW 325 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 2011 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (271 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
