2012 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 125
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 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 125 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2011 BMW 125.
Because 2011 BMW 125 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 125. 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 125. (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 125.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 125 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
