2004 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 5 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 235 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 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 51 L |
