2008 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2008 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 320 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
