2006 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 840
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 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 840 weights approximately 215 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 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 840. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 840 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 840 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 840 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 840 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
