2009 Audi A3 vs. 1995 BMW 317
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1995 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW 317. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1995 BMW 317 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 317 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
