2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (225 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 350 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 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 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, 2005 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
