2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2011 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi A3. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2011 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2011 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | X3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
