2003 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. 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 1998 BMW 320. 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, 2003 Audi A3 (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2169 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 246 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72 mm |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |