2003 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 391 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2011 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
