2003 BMW 530 vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 2003 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 BMW 530 (501 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 530 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 530 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 530 | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 530 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 501 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.1 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
