2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 120
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
