2003 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW 323
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 225 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 1999 BMW 323. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1999 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| 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 | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
