2012 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 120 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 46 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 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:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
