2003 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 17 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
