2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 280 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 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
