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, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2009 BMW 120.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 120 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 | 2009 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
