2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 540
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 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP) has 85 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 540. 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 540 (440 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 540 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 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4397 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 282 HP |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
