2001 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 316
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 316 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2001 Audi A3.
Because 1996 BMW 316 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 1996 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
