2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 59 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1496 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |