2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 530
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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 530 (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1996 BMW 530.
Because 1996 BMW 530 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 530. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
