2009 Audi A3 vs. 1999 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1999 BMW 330. (185 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1999 BMW 330 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 1999 BMW 330. 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, 1999 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1999 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
