1999 Audi A4 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A4 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1999 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1999 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A4. 2012 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi A4 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 67 L |
