2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 740
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 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 702 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 1998 BMW 740 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 740. 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, 1998 BMW 740 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1968 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |
