2005 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 408 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 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2008 BMW X3 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. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
