2003 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Audi A1
To start off, 2012 Audi A1 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 2012 Audi A1. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2012 Audi A1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A1, 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A1. (250 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2012 Audi A1 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A1 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3954 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1416 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2469 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 34 L |
