2008 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW M3
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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2005 BMW M3 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
