2004 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW Compact
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Compact. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Compact would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Compact is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Compact 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 2001 BMW Compact. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 BMW Compact (237 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm). This means 2001 BMW Compact will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Compact has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Compact will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW Compact | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | Compact |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
