2007 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW M
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 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW M weights approximately 170 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 M 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 M. 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 M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M 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 M | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
