2007 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2007 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 330 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 2007 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
