2008 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW M
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M (330 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2007 BMW M 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 2007 BMW M. 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, 2007 BMW M (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2007 BMW M | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
