2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 550
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 455 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 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 550. 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, 2008 BMW 550 (491 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 550 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 550 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 362 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 491 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |