2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 is newer by 5 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 318 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 45 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 2012 BMW 318 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 318. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 9.1 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 | 1450 kg | 1495 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 |
