2001 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
