2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 735
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 735. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 735 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 735 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 BMW 735. (232 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 735. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 735 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 735. 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, 1996 BMW 735 (321 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 735 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 735 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 735 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1820 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |
