2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 631 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.2 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
