2009 Audi S3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi S3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S3 (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 BMW 320. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 320.
Because 2009 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S3 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi S3. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 57 L |
