2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 19 kg more than 1998 BMW 320.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 320. 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
