2003 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 75 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 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 118 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
