2004 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.2 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
