2005 Audi A3 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 199 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 250 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
