2008 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2003 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | M3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
