BMW 1 series vs Audi a3

The BMW 1 Series the only car in its class that's rear-wheel drive, and has a perfect 50-50 weight distribution because the engine is mounted well back in the chassis. It's almost front-midengined. The 1 Series is marginally longer than the 165-inch Audi A3.

The 1 Series has the trademark grille and "flame surfacing" with a hatchback body shell. Audi's A3 design is understated and functional. The Audi A3 has a handsome, beautifully rendered dashboard which sets it apart from its rivals. The Audi feels like a special, quality product for which it's worth paying a premium. Inside, there's just enough room for four adults,and the trunk is adequate.

In the BMW 1 Series rear seat space is tight as well as the cargo space in the trunk, resulting from the rear wheel drive design. The dashboard also does not have the refinement of the A3.

The A3's gasoline engine offerings begin with a 101-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline four and culminates in a 247-hp, 3.2-liter V6. The diesel models are the most popular in Europe and Audi's 2.0 TDI, which boasts 138 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque, is a good combination of performance and economy.

BMW's gasoline offerings starts with a 115-hp, 1.6-liter inline four and rises to the 3.0-liter straight six that's shared with many models in the BMW range. Two turbodiesels are offered, including a powerful 2.0-liter with 163 hp and 251 lb-ft.

The BMW 1 Series does have the poise and agility that makes them fun to drive. The steering is crisp, sharp and accurate and because the rear wheels are providing the propulsion, there's no torque steer.

The A3 is available in both front and all-wheel-drive quattro models and both feature safe, secure handling. It steers nicely and the gear change is slick, but the A3 still lacks the tactility and adjustability of the BMW.