2012 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 2005 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 2005 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 320 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2005 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |