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 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 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. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2008 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 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. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
