2005 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW M
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW M | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
