2003 Audi A3 vs. 2004 BMW 545
To start off, 2004 BMW 545 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 545 (325 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (246 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 BMW 545.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 545. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 2004 BMW 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2004 BMW 545 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 545 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3188 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
