2009 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 320 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
