2007 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 729
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 729. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 729 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 729 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 729 (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 729 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 729 weights approximately 485 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 1998 BMW 729 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 729. 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, 1998 BMW 729 (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 729 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 729 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 729 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
