2003 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW X5
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 345 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 X5 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3. 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 85 L |
