2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 7 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), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120. 2011 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
