2009 Audi S3 vs. 1998 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 Audi S3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (189 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2009 Audi S3.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 330. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 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, 1998 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S3. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S3. 1998 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 1998 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
