2006 Audi A3 vs. 2005 BMW 740

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 740 (317 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 740 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 740 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 2005 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2005 BMW 740 (391 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 2005 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 2005 BMW 740
Make Audi BMW
Model A3 740
Year Released 2006 2005
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1982 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 197 HP 317 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 391 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 84.1 mm
Top Speed 236 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 6.8 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1895 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 3000 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.7 L/100km 11.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 88 L