2007 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW M3
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2007 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (200 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
