2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 633 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 525 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 279 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 22.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1563 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |