2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 BMW X3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW X3. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW X3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
