2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
