2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 316. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
