2002 Audi S3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi S3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 342 kg more than 2002 Audi S3.
Because 2002 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Audi S3 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2002 Audi S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi S3 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1779 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1423 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 67 L |
