2007 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X3

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 538 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 2008 BMW X3 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 2008 BMW X3. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Audi A3 2008 BMW X3
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 X3
Year Released 2007 2008
Body Type Hatchback SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 2996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 101 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 149 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.4 mm 88 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 185 km/hour 210 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.9 seconds 7.5 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 1818 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4570 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1860 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2800 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7 L/100km 10.3 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 67 L