2006 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 1998 BMW 323. 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 (281 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1547 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
