2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW 320

To start off, 2009 BMW 320 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 (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 130 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 2009 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2009 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Audi A3 2009 BMW 320
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 320
Year Released 2008 2009
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 201 Nm 210 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 72 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 214 km/hour 224 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.1 seconds 8.5 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7 L/100km 9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 63 L