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, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 50 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 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). 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 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
