2006 Audi S3 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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S3 (222 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2006 Audi S3.
Because 2006 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S3 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1495 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
