2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 525
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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 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 79 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. 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 525. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 525 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 247 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |