2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 BMW 535
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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (235 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 535 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 1996 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 535 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 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
