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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 565 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
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 | 1984 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
