2003 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 523 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |