2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 320

To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.

Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 BMW 320 (365 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 2005 BMW 320
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 320
Year Released 2008 2005
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 198 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 365 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 17.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 234 km/hour 220 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 8.6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 1505 kg
Vehicle Length 4180 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.8 L/100km 5.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 60 L