1999 Audi A3 vs. 2010 BMW 120

To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1999 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 120 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1999 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2010 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi A3. 2010 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Audi A3 2010 BMW 120
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 120
Year Released 1999 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 101 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 144 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 16.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 200 km/hour 226 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 1326 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.6 L/100km 5.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 51 L