2006 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 320 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 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 320. (270 Nm). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1997 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
