2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 8 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2012 BMW 120. (177 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2012 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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, 2012 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.6 L/100km | 4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
