2008 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 320
To start off, 2011 BMW 320 is newer by 3 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), 2011 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 320 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 | 2011 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| 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 | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
