2009 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 620 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 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 118. (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 118 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
