2001 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 520
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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 520. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
