2008 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW 730
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 730 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1999 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 730 weights approximately 291 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 BMW 730. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1999 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
