2009 Audi A3 vs. 2007 BMW M

To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW M would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M (330 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M weights approximately 455 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 2007 BMW M 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 2007 BMW M. 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, 2007 BMW M (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW M has manual transmission. 2007 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A3 2007 BMW M
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 M
Year Released 2009 2007
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 3245 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 330 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 7900 RPM
Torque 281 Nm 355 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.6 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 91 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 11.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1030 kg 1485 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4120 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2500 mm
Fuel Consumption 8.4 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 10.7 L/100km 14.7 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.8 L/100km 12.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L