BMW 1 Series vs Audi A3: Compare by Reg (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3, covering MOT pass rates, estimated running costs, typical issues, and overall reliability. Based on 965,744 MOT tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
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Quick Verdict
The BMW 1 Series edges ahead in this comparison with an 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Audi A3. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The BMW 1 Series has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Audi A3 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
BMW 1 Series
87%
MOT pass rate
181,456 tests
More reliableAudi A3
84%
MOT pass rate
784,288 tests
Full Comparison: BMW 1 Series vs Audi A3
| Category | BMW 1 Series | Audi A3 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 87%Winner | 84% |
| MOT Fail Rate | 13%Winner | 16% |
| vs All-Model Avg | +5 ptsWinner | +2 pts |
| Est. Fuel Cost (petrol, 8,000 mi/yr) | £1,814 | £1,814 |
| Est. Insurance Group | 25-35 | 18-28 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £2,000-£3,500 | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Engine Size | 2.1L | 1.7L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Diesel, Petrol | Diesel, Petrol |
| Segment | Premium | Premium |
| Avg Mileage | 88,631 miWinner | 104,648 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 181,456 | 784,288 |
| Model Years | 18 years | 25 years |
| Best Year | 2018 (92%) | 2021 (94%)Winner |
| Worst Year | 2004 (72%)Winner | 1997 (68%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Pass rates are the share of MOT tests that ended in a pass (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included), across all years of each model. Best and worst years need at least 100 tests. Fuel cost, insurance group and depreciation are our rough estimates from engine size and make, not official figures.
Common Problems Comparison
Typical issues to check on cars of this type and age, not faults measured for these models.
BMW 1 Series: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Higher tyre and brake wear (larger engine)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Audi A3: Typical Issues to Check
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
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BMW 1 Series vs Audi A3 FAQ
Can I compare a BMW 1 Series and Audi A3 by registration plate?
Yes. Enter each car's UK registration plate on this page or use our free compare tool at carcostcheck.co.uk/compare to see MOT history, mileage, health scores and running costs for the exact vehicles you are considering, not just model averages.
Which is more reliable, the BMW 1 Series or Audi A3?
The BMW 1 Series has the higher MOT pass rate, 87% compared to 84% for the Audi A3 (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included).
Which is cheaper to run, the BMW 1 Series or Audi A3?
At 8,000 miles per year, the BMW 1 Series costs around £1,814 in fuel, while the Audi A3 costs around £1,814 (our estimates for petrol versions from average engine size, with fuel at GOV.UK average pump prices for the week of 19 October 2026). On these estimates they cost the same in fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a BMW 1 Series or Audi A3?
The BMW 1 Series edges ahead in this comparison with an 87% MOT pass rate versus 84% for the Audi A3. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices. The BMW 1 Series has a slight advantage on MOT results, while the Audi A3 may offer other benefits depending on your priorities.
BMW 1 Series Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Audi A3 Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
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