2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 740
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 740 weights approximately 535 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 740 (420 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
