German Car Zone

This is such a BSish "test".

It's all about "which car do I prefer" not about really testing them.
I hate such subjective "tests".

The guy even admits the test is about Audi ... so they brought the 1er just to show Audi in even better light.

And I hate guys who can't drive BMWs ... BMW engines are high-rev engines. So to get best of them you should get the engine in high revs. Otherwise it feels anemic.

Audi faster & more nimble?
BMW much heavier?

Official data & other tests show different results.

But A3's engine outputs more torque which is distributed evenly (due being turbocharged) - and there lies the A3's advantage.


BMW should hurry up bringing turbocharged I4 engines ... Since Audi has a great advantage right now regarding the 4-cylinder petrol engines. Not to mention smooth & fast DCT gearbox.

I wonder what we will see first (gasoline), twin-turbo I4 or twin-turbo V12...

I have to agree with EnI on this test..It´s not scientific..its borring..and pointless IMO
P.S. - I would rather drive straight six that 4 cylinder any day..

The A3 does appear to be lighter: 1485kg (per Audi) vs 1510kg (per BMW). It may very well feel faster because of the turbo delivering torque down low.

As for costs, I think he is confusing that particular A3 for another one. The 2.0 TFSI Sport with S-Tronic, as he tests there, starts at £26,910 (OTR). So instead of the 2K in savings vs the BMW, it's almost 1K more, comparing On The Road prices.

The Audi should cost less, as it's based on a much cheaper platform. Hasn't got an alloy-magnesium block, no regenerative braking, is built in Hungary whereas the 1er is built in Germany. The A3 has a faster-operating top, but it leaves the hinge area unfinished, as he pointed out. That's a rather uncharacteristic oversight for Audi. Aside from a cleaner finish, the 1er's top can be operated while traveling 11 mph faster.

True. BMW is still a bit heavier ... But only for a friction.

A3 2.0 TFSI S-tronic : 1,485kg (DIN) = 1,560kg (EU).
125i = 1,585kg (EU)


So, 125i is 15kg heavier in standard trim. Optional features can add weight - same case for A3.