2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 465 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 2011 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW M3 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 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | M3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92 mm |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 6 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.6 L/100km | 18 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |