2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 320
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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 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 2008 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
