2003 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 740
To start off, 2005 BMW 740 is newer by 2 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 740 (328 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 740 weights approximately 595 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 740 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 BMW 740 (390 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2005 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
