2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2003 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 320 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |