2008 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW M3

To start off, both 2008 Audi A3 and 2008 BMW M3 were released in the same year (2008). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 85 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 BMW M3 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 2008 BMW M3. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 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 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 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 2008 BMW M3
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 M3
Year Released 2008 2008
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 3246 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 197 HP 339 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 365 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 236 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 5.2 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 1570 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2740 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.7 L/100km 11.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 63 L