2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 740 (315 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 525 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 740 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 740. 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, 2012 BMW 740 (447 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5215 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |
