2005 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 845
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 845. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 845 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 845 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 845 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 845 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 845 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 845 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 845. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 845 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 845 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 845 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 845 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2690 mm |
