2006 Audi A3 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
