2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 390 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 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
