2005 Audi A3 vs. 2011 BMW 525
To start off, 2011 BMW 525 is newer by 6 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 525 weights approximately 405 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3. 2011 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 2011 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 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 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
