2003 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 330
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 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 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 330 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 330 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 2012 BMW 330. 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, 2012 BMW 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
