2009 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 70 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 320. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
