2005 Audi A3 vs. 2001 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (149 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2001 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
