2012 Audi A3 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 16 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
