2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 356 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 325 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 | 1998 BMW 325 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 325 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |