2004 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 4 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 540 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4398 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
