2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 BMW 535 is newer by 8 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 535 (311 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 2012 BMW 535 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 2012 BMW 535. 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, 2012 BMW 535 (600 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2012 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 535 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
