2004 Audi A3 vs. 1993 BMW 316

To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1993 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1993 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW 316 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.

Because 1993 BMW 316 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 1993 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Audi A3 1993 BMW 316
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 316
Year Released 2004 1993
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 1594 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 141 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 72 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 236 km/hour 192 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1840 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 62 L