2005 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 4 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 210 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
