2007 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 330
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 330. 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, both vehicles can yield 281 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
