2003 Audi A3 vs. 2002 BMW 320
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 320 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2002 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2002 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
