2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1998 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 1998 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 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316. 1998 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 13.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.5 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
