2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 650
To start off, 2012 BMW 650 is newer by 4 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 650 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 650 weights approximately 550 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 650. 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, 2012 BMW 650 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 650 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 650 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 | 2012 BMW 650 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 650 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
