1999 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 13 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, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 140 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 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 323 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
