2004 Audi A3 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 2 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2006 BMW 530. (216 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW 530. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2006 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 530 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 242 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
