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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 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. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 155 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. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 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 | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
