2009 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X3
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 X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (251 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 60 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 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 | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
