2005 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 7 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 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 90 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 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 | 234 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
