2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 BMW X3
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 356 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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 X3 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
