1999 BMW 323 vs. 2011 Audi S3
To start off, 2011 Audi S3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi S3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S3 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, 2011 Audi S3 (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2011 Audi S3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 323 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
