2003 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 325
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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 91 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 1998 BMW 325 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 1998 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 325 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1386 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 | 52 L |