2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 840
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 840 weights approximately 685 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 840 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 1996 BMW 840. 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, 1996 BMW 840 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 840 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 840 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 840 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 90 L |
