2006 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW 540
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 436 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 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (250 Nm). This means 1999 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 | 1999 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1771 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
