2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 325 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 325 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 1996 BMW 325. 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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| 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 | 1265 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
