2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 235 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 525 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 525. 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 525 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 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 525 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 525 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |