2004 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 729
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 729. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 729 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 71 more horse power than 1998 BMW 729. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 729. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 729 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 729. 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, 1998 BMW 729 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 729 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 729 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 729 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2940 mm |
