2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 5 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, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2003 Audi A3.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2008 BMW 540 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. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 6.2 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 | 1295 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.1 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
