2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 330
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 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 1998 BMW 330 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 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
