2003 Audi A3 vs. 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

To start off, 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is newer by 10 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 weights approximately 640 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 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 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 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5. 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, 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 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. 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A3 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 ActiveHybrid 5
Year Released 2003 2013
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1967 cc 2979 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 296 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 407 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 89 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 10.2 :1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 207 km/hour 210 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.5 seconds 6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 8-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1980 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4899 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 2094 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1464 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2968 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 67 L