2004 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 7 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2004 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 520. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 6 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |