2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 320
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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
