2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3000 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |